Meridian reports decreased national hydro storage

Meridian Energy has reported a decrease in national hydro storage and lower inflows in August 2025.

According to the company's monthly operating report, national hydro storage dropped from 87% to 79% of the historical average.

South Island storage decreased to 73% of average, while North Island storage decreased to 98% of average.

Meridian's total inflows for August were 73% of the historical average, with the Waiau catchment inflows at 67% of the average.

The company's Waitaki catchment water storage was at 65% of the historical average, and snow storage in the Waitaki catchment was at 78% of the average in early September.

Water storage in the Waiau catchment was at 84% of the average.

The company attributed the lower storage and inflows to a dry and cool month, with below-average rainfall and temperatures for most of the country.

National electricity demand in August was 5.9% higher than in August 2024.

Meridian's retail sales volumes were also higher, with a 12.8% increase compared to the same month last year.